What is an 8857 form?
Form 8857 is used to request relief from joint tax liabilities. This form is essential for individuals who believe they should not be held responsible for a tax bill due to actions taken by their spouse or ex-spouse. It's particularly relevant in situations of divorce or separation, where one party may have been unaware of the financial dealings that led to the tax liability. Filling out this form can help protect individuals from debts that they believe are not their responsibility.
What is an 8857 form used for?
Form 8857 is crucial for taxpayers seeking specific tax relief. Here's what it's used for:
- To request relief from joint tax liability.
- To separate tax responsibility from a spouse or ex-spouse.
- To apply for equitable relief if not qualified under other categories.
How to fill out an 8857 form?
- 1
Start by entering your personal information, including your name, Social Security Number, and contact details.
- 2
Detail the tax year(s) you're requesting relief for in the designated section.
- 3
Explain your situation in the Reason for Relief section, providing clear reasons for your request.
- 4
List any supporting documents you're attaching in the Documentation section.
- 5
Review all entered information for accuracy.
- 6
Create a simple electronic signature if the form accepts it, then date the form.
- 7
Download the completed form for your records.
Who is required to fill out Form 8857?
Form 8857 is filled out by individuals seeking relief from joint tax liabilities under the Innocent Spouse Relief provisions.
The IRS uses this form to determine eligibility for relief, impacting decisions on tax obligations.
When is an 8857 form not required?
If you're not seeking relief from joint tax liabilities due to the actions or inactions of your spouse, then you don't need to fill out this form.
Individuals who file taxes separately or are not married do not require Form 8857. This form is also unnecessary for those who are not looking to separate tax liabilities that were previously joint.
When is an 8857 form due?
The deadline for Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief, is as soon as you become aware of a tax liability for which you believe only your spouse or former spouse should be held responsible. Generally, you must submit Form 8857 no later than 2 years after the date the IRS first attempted to collect the tax from you.
Understanding this timeline is crucial to ensuring your request is considered by the IRS.
How to get a blank 8857 form?
To get a blank form 8857, simply visit our website. We have the template pre-loaded in our editor, ready for you to fill out. Remember, while our platform helps you complete and download the form, it doesn't assist with filing it.
How to sign 8857 form online?
To sign form 8857 online with PDF Guru, start by loading the form in the PDF editor. Fill out the required fields with your information.
After completing the form, you can create a simple electronic signature to finalize it. Click 'Done' to download your signed document.
Where to file an 8857?
Form 8857 can be submitted by mail to the IRS. This is the method used for requesting innocent spouse relief.
It cannot be filed online, as the IRS requires a physical copy for processing.
